There’s something magical about pasta recipes with ground beef that just makes my taste buds do a little happy dance. Picture this: a steaming plate of spaghetti twirls, drizzled in a rich, savory sauce bubbling with flavor. The aroma wafts through the air, mingling with the scent of garlic and herbs, inviting you to dig in. It’s comfort food at its finest, bringing back memories of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter while devouring every last bite.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during a game night—let’s just say it was an instant hit. After one forkful, they were nodding in approval like they were at some culinary awards show. The best part? This pasta recipe is perfect for any occasion—from cozy weeknight meals to festive gatherings where you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this irresistible creation!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pasta recipe with ground beef offers a delightful balance of flavors that will keep you coming back for seconds
- Its straightforward preparation means you can whip it up even on busy nights
- The vibrant colors and inviting aromas make it visually appealing and appetizing for everyone
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with whatever ingredients you have on hand
Sharing this delightful dish has always led to smiles and satisfied stomachs; my friends still rave about it every time we gather.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease; it keeps the dish healthier without sacrificing taste.
Pasta: Spaghetti or penne works beautifully; opt for your favorite type to personalize this meal.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings out robust flavors; always use fresh cloves for the best aroma.
Onions: Diced onions add sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor infusion.
Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a rich sauce base; they provide depth and great texture.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil adds authenticity; feel free to adjust based on preference.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese is the finishing touch; it enhances the flavors and adds creaminess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Dice onions and mince garlic while dreaming about all those glorious flavors mingling together.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and toss in diced onions. Sauté until they soften and turn slightly golden. Then add minced garlic until fragrant—this should take about 1 minute.
Add Ground Beef: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula so it crumbles nicely—about 5-7 minutes should do.
Mix in Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in those crushed tomatoes along with Italian seasoning. Stir well and let everything simmer together for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can marry beautifully.
Cook the Pasta: While your sauce simmers, boil water in a separate pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes is perfect.
Toss Everything Together!: Drain your pasta and mix it into the beef sauce directly in the skillet. Stir gently to coat every noodle evenly before serving hot garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish as you relish in its hearty goodness!
You Must Know
- This delightful pasta recipe with ground beef is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The comforting aroma of garlic and simmering sauce fills your kitchen, making it irresistible
- Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet, then sauté onions and garlic before adding tomatoes. Simultaneously, cook the pasta in salted water for the best flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish, adding depth and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can make a big difference
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for better flavor and texture
- Don’t rush cooking the pasta; al dente is key to prevent mushiness
Cooking this pasta recipe with ground beef has always been a family favorite. My cousin once declared it “better than Grandma’s,” which I still chuckle about every time I make it.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well here.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Garlic bread and a fresh salad complement this pasta beautifully and add balance to your meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick that will delight spice lovers.
Pasta with Ground Beef
Pasta with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. This easy-to-make dish features tender pasta enveloped in a rich, savory sauce made with lean ground beef, fresh garlic, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe promises to impress without the hassle. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that will leave everyone craving more.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 12 ounces spaghetti or penne pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 28 ounces crushed canned tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your counter.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Increase heat and add ground beef, cooking until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- Mix in crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning; let simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
- While the sauce simmers, cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes).
- Drain pasta and combine with the beef sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat noodles evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
